Sora finally arrives, quantum breakthrough at Alphabet, and Chinese hackers still lurking in telecom [12-09-2024]

Google's Willow Quantum Chip: A Breakthrough in Error Correction and Performance

Google has developed a new quantum chip called Willow, which significantly reduces errors as it scales up, a major breakthrough in quantum error correction. Willow also performed a computation in under five minutes that would take a supercomputer 10 septillion years, demonstrating its potential for solving complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers. This achievement marks a significant step towards building commercially relevant quantum computers that can revolutionize fields like medicine, energy, and AI.

Source: https://blog.google/technology/research/google-willow-quantum-chip/

CISA, FBI Urge Americans to Use Encrypted Messaging Apps to Combat Chinese Telco Hackers

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the FBI have warned Americans about the ongoing threat from a China-backed hacking group known as Salt Typhoon, which has infiltrated the networks of major US telecom providers. The hackers have gained access to unencrypted calls and text messages, as well as metadata, potentially targeting US officials and presidential candidates. To combat this threat, officials have urged Americans to use encrypted messaging apps like Signal and WhatsApp. The government has also provided guidance to telecom companies on how to strengthen their networks against these hackers.

Source: https://techcrunch.com/2024/12/04/fbi-recommends-encrypted-messaging-apps-combat-chinese-hackers/

New Reactor Converts Sunlight and Water into Clean Fuel, but Efficiency Hurdles Remain

Researchers at Shinshu University in Japan have developed a novel reactor to manufacture renewable hydrogen fuel directly from sunlight and water, offering a potential way to produce zero-emission fuel cheaply and sustainably. The reactor employs unique photocatalytic panels to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen in a two-step process, and initial tests have shown promising results with around 50 percent higher solar energy conversion under actual sunlight. However, the efficiency needs to be improved to make it commercially viable, requiring a broader scientific effort focused on enhancing the photocatalysts. Despite the technical hurdles, the concept shows great promise for a future where fuel production relies on the most plentiful resources on Earth rather than finite fossil fuels.

Source: https://www.techspot.com/news/105874-scientists-discover-new-way-make-fuel-water-sunlight.html

OpenAI Announces Global Release of Sora Video Generation AI Model for ChatGPT Subscribers

Today, OpenAI publicly released Sora, its long-awaited video generation model, to ChatGPT Plus and Pro subscribers in the US and other eligible countries. The model, known as Sora Turbo, is faster and more powerful, but still has limitations such as generating unrealistic physics and struggling with complex actions over long durations. Subscribers will be able to create videos up to 1080p and 20 seconds long, with different usage limits based on their subscription plan.

Source: https://www.engadget.com/ai/openais-sora-video-generation-ai-model-arrives-globally-later-today-182613208.html